The remains believed to be those of 17-year-old Hailey Buzbee, missing since January 5, have been recovered in Perry County, Ohio, according to a statement from the attorney representing a suspect in the case.
Investigation Timeline
Hailey Buzbee disappeared from her home in Fishers, Indiana. Her father, Beau Buzbee, expressed surprise at her departure, stating to Dateline that they “didn’t really see her as being in a place where this was even a remote, slight chance of a possibility.”
The Fishers Police Department initially categorized Hailey as a runaway, noting she “left her house willingly and with a plan” and did not believe she acted alone. Detectives quickly identified a person of interest, later determined to be Thomas, who Hailey had initially contacted through online gaming.
Investigators encountered Thomas in Ohio within days of Hailey’s disappearance, where he initially claimed to have dropped her off on the side of a road. This account was later determined to be false. Evidence subsequently led investigators to both Thomas’s home in Columbus and a short-term rental property in Hocking County, Ohio, confirming Hailey had been at both locations.
On February 2, Thomas appeared in an Ohio courtroom facing felony charges of pandering obscenity and tampering with evidence. His bond was set at $1.5 million. His attorney, Sam Shamansky, stated that Thomas assisted investigators in locating Hailey’s remains.
Current Status and Potential Next Steps
While Thomas has not been charged with Hailey’s death, Shamansky anticipates charges will be filed in Hocking County and stated his client will plead not guilty to any homicide charges. The Hocking County Sheriff’s office utilized drones, canine units, and ground searches in the effort to locate Hailey.
Chief Ed Gebhart of the Fishers Police Department confirmed that investigators believe Hailey died within a few days of leaving home. He expressed his department’s grief and extended condolences to the Buzbee family and the Fishers community.
Beau Buzbee has shared a petition calling for the creation of “Hailey’s Law” in Indiana, advocating for a “Pink Alert” system for missing persons who don’t meet the criteria for Amber or Silver Alerts, and for mandatory predator awareness education in schools.
Frequently Asked Questions
What was the initial assessment of Hailey Buzbee’s disappearance?
The Fishers Police Department initially classified Hailey Buzbee’s disappearance as a runaway case, believing she left willingly and with a plan, and did not act alone.
What charges is Thomas currently facing?
Thomas is currently facing two felony charges: pandering obscenity and tampering with evidence. He has not been charged with Hailey’s death.
Where were Hailey Buzbee’s remains recovered?
Hailey Buzbee’s remains were recovered in Perry County, Ohio.
What further steps do you think are necessary to address the vulnerabilities that contributed to this tragic outcome?
